There are two main types of stem cell transplants: autologous and allogeneic. In an autologous transplant, stem cells are collected from the patient’s blood and then reintroduced after treatment to get rid of the cancerous cells. In an allogeneic transplant, the stem cells come from another person. This can be someone within your family or an unrelated donor from the National Marrow Donor Program.
Successful stem cell transplants give people new, healthy bone marrow. Because donor cells are used in allogeneic transplants, patients are also getting a new immune system that may help protect against the underlying cancer.
Transplantation can occur in the inpatient or outpatient (ambulatory) setting. We are now doing more transplants in the outpatient setting. Your care team will help determine what is best for you.
